My name is Marilyn Baker, and I have horrible allergies. I’m 42 years old and have been suffering from allergies since I was a child. I have seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies plague me year round. When I was young, my parents even moved to a dryer area in the hope of helping me. Over the past eight years, I have done extensive research both through doctors and online. I have managed to come up with some combinations that have helped me a great deal. My allergies aren’t gone, but they have become manageable. I do have to have allergy shots, but I also use some natural remedies. I am happy to be able to share my findings with you here on my blog. I hope you can find some of this of value.
Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that impacts the optical nerve and is caused by poor fluid circulation. The fluid, known as aqueous humor, exits the eye through a web-like structure. A blockage in the structure causes fluid build up. This can make driving more difficult, but you may still be able to drive. Here is some more information on driving with glaucoma.
How Glaucoma Impacts Driving
Peripheral vision allows you to see out of the corners of your eyes. Without treatment, you will lose peripheral vision and develop tunnel vision. which could cause you to miss pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. The loss of peripheral vision may cause you to be unaware of glaucoma symptoms until advanced stages.
By the time you become aware, you may also be under the required vision level needed for driving. The brain tricks your eyes by replacing the missing pieces needed for clear vision, so you think nothing is amiss. In early phases of glaucoma, you will still retain central vision. It is possible to lose 40% of your vision before you notice anything wrong.
Knowing When You Should Hand Over the Keys with Glaucoma
If you are undecided on whether or not you should give up driving, there are risk factors to consider. While good drivers can have accidents, it may be time to revaluate your safety as a driver because of reduced peripheral vision.
You should evaluate light sensitivity. How long does it take your eyes to adjust to bright lights, glare, or sunlight? This delay can make driving difficult at night and hamper you ability to avoid accidents.
Reduced peripheral vision impacts your ability to change lanes or see approaching pedestrians. Do you have trouble seeing objects coming from the side? Is your vision blurry? Blurred vision will keep you from making out traffic signals and objects in the road.
What You Can Do to Lower Driving Risk
It is essential to see your doctor regularly when you have glaucoma. Doctors will be able to slow the progress of the condition. They may refer you to a specialist to test your driving. You can improve your driving abilities by finding a driving rehabilitation specialist in your area.
It is possible to keep driving with glaucoma if you don't have significant vision loss. Driving is a privilege, and it helps you stay independent. Regular eye exams from an optometrist will detect the problem early, and maybe you won't have to give up driving.
Share